Kurland’s eighth novel of the Nine Kingdoms (after Dreamspinner) continues the adventures of Aisling of Bruadair, who was raised in a weavers’ guild in a stark country that one must not speak of for fear of being cursed with death. Having dared to leave home, Aisling is starting to realize that there is bountiful legend, magic, and beauty in the Nine Kingdoms. Aisling is traveling from haven to haven with her brave elfin prince companion, Rùnach of Ceangail, on a quest to save her dying country and restore Rùnach’s stolen magic. Despite not understanding Aisling’s unusual talent for spinning air, fire, and water, Rùnach devotes himself to the reserved, humble weaver who doesn’t recognize his persistent (and artless) wooing. Aisling and Runach’s tender romance sweetly ratchets up as they take turns saving each other from perilous danger, and series fans will be left eager to read about their future adventures. (Jan.)